The first chill of autumn always brings me a sense of coziness—the kind that calls for a warm bowl of soup. Picture this: as I take my first sip of this Cozy Crockpot Potato Soup with Sausage, the creamy texture and savory notes envelop me like a soft blanket on a cool evening. The rich aroma of sautéed garlic and onions fills the kitchen, instantly warming the heart and home.
I love how effortlessly this dish comes together, allowing you to enjoy the day while the crockpot works its magic. With each spoonful, tender potatoes mingle with savory sausage, creating a satisfying meal that instantly lifts spirits. Plus, it’s versatile enough to accommodate various tastes—whether you’re craving a spicy kick or a comforting vegetarian twist.
So when the weather turns brisk, abandon the fast food routine and indulge in this delectable one-pot wonder that’s not only effortless but also makes for perfect leftovers! Let’s dive into making this soul-soothing soup together.
Why is Cozy Crockpot Potato Soup with Sausage a Must-Try?
Simplicity is key—this recipe requires minimal prep and lets the crockpot do the work while you enjoy your day. Creamy texture combines perfectly with tender potatoes and savory sausage for a cozy dining experience. Versatility allows for delicious variations, making it suitable for everyone, whether their preference leans toward vegetarian or spicy flavors. Crowd-pleaser nature ensures it’s a hit at gatherings, perfect for making memories around the table. And, of course, it’s make-ahead and freezer-friendly, saving you time on busy nights. Get ready to warm your family’s hearts with this comforting one-pot wonder!
Cozy Crockpot Potato Soup with Sausage Ingredients
For the Soup Base
• Italian-style sausage – Provides savory richness; substitute with plant-based sausage for a vegetarian option.
• Onion – Adds depth of flavor; finely chop for even cooking.
• Garlic – Enhances aroma and taste; use fresh cloves for best results.
• Potatoes – Acts as the base for texture; Yukon Gold or Russet are ideal for creaminess.
• Chicken broth – Provides the soup’s liquid base; use vegetable broth for a vegetarian version.
For Creaminess
• Heavy cream or half-and-half – Adds rich creaminess; substitute with evaporated milk for a lighter version.
• Salt – Balances flavors; adjust to taste.
• Black pepper – Adds mild heat; adjust based on your spice preference.
Herbs & Seasoning
• Dried thyme or Italian seasoning – Imparts herby notes; use fresh herbs for stronger flavors.
• Olive oil – Used for sautéing the onion and garlic; can substitute with butter.
For the Finishing Touch
• Cheddar cheese – Adds richness and flavor; substitute with Colby Jack or mozzarella if desired.
Let this soul-soothing Cozy Crockpot Potato Soup with Sausage be the star of your next family meal!
How to Make Cozy Crockpot Potato Soup with Sausage
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Sauté Aromatics: In a skillet, heat olive oil over medium heat. Sauté chopped onion and minced garlic until fragrant and translucent, about 5 minutes. This will add depth to your soup.
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Layer Ingredients: In the crockpot, add the sautéed onion and garlic, diced potatoes, and crumbled sausage. Layering these ingredients allows all the flavors to meld beautifully.
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Add Liquids: Pour in the chicken broth, then add salt, pepper, and dried thyme. Stir to combine everything well, creating a flavorful base for your soup.
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Cook: Cover and cook on low for 6 hours or until the potatoes are tender. You’ll know it’s ready when all the ingredients are bubbling together, releasing delicious aromas.
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Finish the Soup: Stir in the cream and shredded cheese just before serving, allowing the cheese to melt into the soup, creating that rich, creamy texture.
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Garnish: Ladle the soup into bowls and garnish with chopped parsley or green onions for a fresh, vibrant touch that enhances the visual appeal.
Optional: Serve with a slice of crusty bread for dipping!
Exact quantities are listed in the recipe card below.
What to Serve with Cozy Crockpot Potato Soup with Sausage?
Imagine a chilly evening where warmth fills your home, and a rich aroma drifts from your kitchen, inviting family to gather around the table.
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Crusty Bread: Perfect for dipping, it adds a satisfying crunch that pairs beautifully with the creamy soup.
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Green Salad: A light salad of mixed greens and cherry tomatoes adds freshness, balancing the soup’s richness.
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Garlic Breadsticks: These buttery delights are a fantastic accompaniment, offering a flavorful contrast to the smoothness of the soup.
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Cheesy Naan: This warm, chewy bread infused with cheese complements the creamy flavors and adds an exotic twist.
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Deviled Eggs: A classic party favorite, their creamy yolk filling echoes the soup’s texture while providing a protein boost.
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Apple Crisp: A warm slice of this fruity dessert with a crunchy topping rounds off the meal perfectly, adding a sweet note to the table.
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Wine Pairing: A light Chardonnay or a crisp Sauvignon Blanc enhances the dish’s flavors, perfect for a cozy evening.
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Pickled Vegetables: A small side of tangy pickles or beets can cut through the soup’s creaminess for a refreshing contrast.
With these delightful pairings, your cozy meal will become a cherished family tradition!
Make Ahead Options
These Cozy Crockpot Potato Soup with Sausage are perfect for busy home cooks looking to save time! You can chop the onions, garlic, and potatoes up to 24 hours in advance and store them in an airtight container in the refrigerator to keep them fresh and prevent browning. Additionally, you can crumble the sausage and refrigerate it separately for even quicker prep. When you’re ready to enjoy this comforting soup, simply layer all the prepped ingredients in the crockpot with the chicken broth and seasonings, and cook on low for 6 hours. This way, you’ll have a hearty meal waiting for you with minimal last-minute effort, just as delicious as if made fresh!
Tips for the Best Cozy Crockpot Potato Soup
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Choose Potatoes Wisely: Yukon Gold or Russet potatoes provide optimal creaminess; avoid using waxy potatoes like red potatoes for this recipe.
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Sauté Aromatics First: Always sauté the onion and garlic before adding to the crockpot. This enhances their flavors and adds depth to your cozy crockpot potato soup.
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Adjust Seasoning: Don’t forget to taste as you go! Adjust the salt according to the broth you’re using, especially when using high-sodium sausage.
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Thickening Trick: For a thicker soup, you can mash some of the cooked potatoes directly in the pot or add a cornstarch slurry.
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Storage Tips: This soup freezes beautifully, but remember to add cream only after reheating, to prevent separation during storage.
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Experiment with Variations: Don’t hesitate to try out different styles, like the loaded potato version, adding toppings such as sour cream and chives for an extra indulgent treat!
Cozy Crockpot Potato Soup with Sausage Variations
Feeling inspired to put your own spin on this delightful soup? Let your creativity shine as you personalize each bowl with these tasty options!
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Vegetarian Twist: Replace Italian sausage with plant-based sausage and vegetable broth for a hearty, meatless version.
Feel free to pile in your favorite veggies, turning it into a wholesome feast. -
Add Greens: Stir in fresh spinach or kale during the last 10 minutes of cooking for a vibrant boost of nutrition.
You’ll be pleasantly surprised at how these greens add a pop of color and freshness to your comforting soup. -
Spicy Kick: Choose spicy sausage and elevate the heat by adding crushed red pepper to taste.
This twist not only warms your palate but keeps you sipping away on those chilly evenings. -
Loaded Potato Style: Top each bowl with sour cream, extra cheese, and freshly chopped chives for a delightful finish.
The combination of creamy toppings will make your soup feel like a luxurious meal in a bowl. -
Lighter Version: Swap heavy cream with half-and-half or evaporated milk without sacrificing creaminess.
This allows you to enjoy its comforting texture while keeping it a bit healthier. -
Cheesy Broccoli: Add steamed broccoli florets and extra cheddar cheese for a cheesy broccoli soup twist.
The combination of broccoli and cheese creates a deliciously creamy and comforting bowl with added nutrients. -
Herbaceous Infusion: Experiment with fresh herbs like dill or cilantro for a fragrant touch.
A sprinkle of fresh herbs infuses the dish with invigorating flavors that elevate every spoonful. -
Bacon Lovers: Toss in crispy bacon bits for added crunch and smoky flavor that pairs beautifully with creamy potatoes.
This indulgent addition will definitely elevate your cozy soup to new savory heights!
Storage Tips for Cozy Crockpot Potato Soup with Sausage
Fridge: Store leftovers in an airtight container for up to 4 days. Make sure the soup cools before sealing to maintain its creamy texture.
Freezer: Freeze the soup for up to 2 months. For optimal freshness, transfer to freezer-safe containers, leaving space to allow for expansion during freezing.
Reheating: When ready to enjoy, thaw overnight in the fridge and reheat on the stove over low heat. Stir in cream after reheating for the best results and to prevent separation.
Leftover Ideas: Transform any leftover soup into a hearty sauce for pasta or a base for casseroles, adding new flavors to keep meals exciting!
Cozy Crockpot Potato Soup with Sausage Recipe FAQs
How do I choose the best potatoes for this soup?
Absolutely! For the creamiest texture, I recommend using Yukon Gold or Russet potatoes. These varieties cook down well and lend a lovely creaminess to the soup. Avoid waxy potatoes like red potatoes, as they won’t achieve the desired consistency.
How long can I store Cozy Crockpot Potato Soup in the fridge?
This delightful soup can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days. Just make sure it cools down before sealing to keep that creamy texture intact!
Can I freeze Cozy Crockpot Potato Soup?
Yes, indeed! You can freeze this soup for up to 2 months. To do this, transfer it to freezer-safe containers, leaving some space at the top for expansion. When you’re ready to enjoy it, thaw it overnight in the fridge and reheat gently on the stove.
What should I do if my soup is too thin?
If your soup turns out thinner than you’d like, don’t worry! You can thicken it by mashing some of the cooked potatoes into the soup. Alternatively, you can create a cornstarch slurry by mixing 1 tablespoon of cornstarch with 2 tablespoons of cold water, then stirring it into the boiling soup until thickened.
Is this soup gluten-free?
Very! Just make sure to use gluten-free chicken broth and check that your sausage is also gluten-free. This accommodating soup is perfect for everyone at your table!
Can I make a vegetarian version of this soup?
Absolutely! To create a vegetarian Cozy Crockpot Potato Soup, simply substitute the Italian sausage with plant-based sausage and opt for vegetable broth instead of chicken broth. You can still enjoy all the comforting flavors while keeping it veggie-friendly!
Creamy Cozy Crockpot Potato Soup with Sausage Bliss
Ingredients
Equipment
Method
- In a skillet, heat olive oil over medium heat. Sauté chopped onion and minced garlic until fragrant and translucent, about 5 minutes.
- In the crockpot, add the sautéed onion and garlic, diced potatoes, and crumbled sausage.
- Pour in the chicken broth, then add salt, pepper, and dried thyme. Stir to combine.
- Cover and cook on low for 6 hours or until the potatoes are tender.
- Stir in the cream and shredded cheese just before serving.
- Ladle the soup into bowls and garnish with chopped parsley or green onions.